Shannon Notes

Sports desks around the country are familiar with the weekly news update from Shannon simply called Shannon Notes. With Shannon back on top in the AIB League we thought we would give readers a flavour of PRO Andrew McNamara's weekly digest.

Why do Shannon make the headlines so often in club rugby?

They are one of the most well known rugby clubs in Ireland. Their record in the AIB League and at domestic provincial level stands proud, but off the pitch they are just as professional in their attitude about making sure their news makes the headlines.

Sports desks around the country and in the Munster region in particular, will be familiar with the regular digest of news from Shannon emailed out by club PRO Andrew McNamara.

With their first team back on top in Division One of the AIB League IrishRugby.ie brings you up to date with all the news in:

Shannon Notes

November 24th, 2007

Wet and miserable it may have been, but as the final whistle blew last Saturday in Clontarf there was a distinct feeling of warmth and joviality swept amongst out faithful support as our latest victory took us to the top of the AIB league. Few, even amongst ourselves would have predicted four wins from our opening four games in the first phase of the league against tough opposition.

Itâ00s a just reward for the lads for their work ethic and commitment from the start of the season, but again itâ00s worth reiterating that thereâ00s a long, long way to go in the league. Despite the 23-16 scoreline, we did in fact win the game a bit more comfortably than that score would suggest. Three tries could easily have been more, but given the conditions and the fact that we would have taken a one point victory prior to the game, it was a fantastic result.

Frankie was in rousing form as he blasted out the Isle in the post match dressing room. Another very pleasing aspect to the day was the wonderful support that travelled as well as our numerous Dublin supporters who made their way to the match. Itâ00s a support that is never undervalued by the team and management and itâ00s greatly appreciated. The supporterâ00s bus, by all accounts, was a haven for unearthed singing talent and with slight provocation, or should that be encouragement from MC Tom Oâ00Connor the journey from The Final Furlong was a highly enjoyable affair.

This weekâ00s focus turns to the Munster senior cup semi final on Saturday when we head across town to Clifford Park to play Cork Constitution. This should be a lively affair, with one eye looking to our January meeting in the AIB league. The senior cup is very dear to our hearts here in Shannon and it was huge regret that we relinquished our firm grip on the cup last season. While the AIB league is naturally the main event so to speak, the lads are putting enormous emphasis on Saturdayâ00s game. Kick off is at the earlier time of 2pm.

For our U/20â00s it was a case of a big effort un rewarded when Young Munster inflicted our first defeat in the league last Saturday. The country wide weather conditions made it a difficult day for both teams. 9-6 was the final score in a game that yielded no tries. Playing against the strong wind in the first half we went into the break 6-3 in arrears, but soon after the resumption we made it level. The strong wind that was so influential in the first half seemed to die down considerably and Young Munster were holding their line well. Another Young Munster successful penalty could not be matched and defeat was our lot, however we still remain leaders of the league and I wouldnâ00t bet against an opportunity to avenge this defeat before the seasons over. The lads will no doubt pick themselves up fro this Saturdayâ00s trip to Athlone to play Buccaneers.

In our only other adult fixture, our 2nds are scheduled to travel to play Cork Constitution on Sunday.

At Underage, the U/18â00s play St Maryâ00s in Coonagh at 11.30.

A reminder to our members that an EGM has been called for Thursday , 29th November in the Woodfield House Hotel to discuss the proposed redevelopment of our clubhouse in Thomond Park.

Finally, our finance committee headed by Ex Offico John Leahy are in the process of re launching the Club Lotto. This will hopefully be a good source of revenue and we urge all our members, supporters and players to get involved. In an effort to simplify matters we would hope to use a direct debit system allied to the more traditional ticket sales in order to maximise the potential of the lotto. If anyone is in a position to help us out in selling tickets feel free to contact me on 087 2717163. Keep an eye out in the next few weeks for ticket sellers.

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt praised the squad's 'immense character' following the 27-24 GUINNESS Series success against Australia. Meanwhile, captain Rory Best reflects on 'an emotional day' as he made his 100th appearance for his country.

Irish Rugby TV brings you a behind the scenes look at Ireland's final GUINNESS Series game against Australia. Joe Schmidt's men marked captain Rory Best's 100th cap with a superb 27-24 victory over the Wallabies.

Saturday's GUINNESS Series clash with Australia marks Michael Kearney's last game as Ireland team manager. We spoke to him about five memorable years in the role. Watch out for a couple of special cameos!

We're ready to create something legendary. A showcase for rugby nations old and new. A tournament that will grow the game globally, promote the values, spirit and ethos of rugby and will capture the world's imagination. #Ireland2023 - Liam Neeson gives voice to Ireland's bid to host Rugby World Cup 2023.

Tickets are now on sale for the first ever Women's November International Series to be held in the UCD Bowl. Kids go free with any adult tickets. Ireland will face world champions England, top ranked Canada and the Black Ferns of New Zealand.

Tournament Director Garrett Tubridy sets the scene for an exciting weekend of rugby at UCD where 16 Women's Sevens teams will battle it out at for one qualifying spot for the Rio Olympics. Tickets are available from www.ticketmaster.ie/sevens.

Tadhg Furlong reflects on a disappointing day for Ireland against South Africa. However, he will take positives from his first Test start and be ready to build for the final match of the series in Port Elizabeth.

Paddy Jackson is preparing for Ireland's second Test against South Africa on Saturday (kick-off 5pm local time/4pm Irish time). The Ulster out-half has been checking out Ellis Park in advance of the match.